As hurricane season approaches, Alabama Gulf Coast residents will have an opportunity to sharpen their storm preparedness skills during a full day workshop set for Saturday, May 16, at the Gulf Coast Eco Center.

The Storm Ready Workshop will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is aimed at homeowners and property managers looking to better protect their homes, landscapes and families from severe weather. Organizers say the hands on program will focus on practical strategies that can be applied before, during and after a storm.

Participants will rotate through sessions covering a range of topics, including how to prepare gardens and landscapes to withstand high winds and heavy rain, as well as safe operation of chainsaws and generators, tools often relied upon in storm recovery. Additional instruction will address tree risk assessment and smart tree selection to reduce property damage.

The workshop also will emphasize emergency planning, with guidance on building a reliable storm supply kit and preparing for essential needs such as food, water and sanitation in the aftermath of a storm.

Hurricane season in the Atlantic officially begins June 1 and runs through Nov. 30, with coastal communities historically facing heightened risk during that period. Emergency officials routinely stress early preparation as a key factor in reducing storm related damage and ensuring personal safety.

The cost to attend the workshop is $10, which includes lunch. Advance registration is required and can be completed online at https://aces.edu/go/5923.